Day-By-Day

An insightful mix of architecture, art, and WWII history

Given that we can only show you a fraction of the history and culture to be found in this diverse region, our itinerary designers have worked exceptionally hard to create revealing and enriching experiences. And as always, flexibility is a hallmark of a Lindblad expedition—our daily itineraries may adjust to take advantage of unique opportunities, like stopping to enjoy a local festival we might happen upon in a town square.

DAY 1: Copenhagen, Denmark/Embark

Arrive in Copenhagen where you’ll explore Nyhavn, the city’s 17th-century waterfront neighborhood, and take a private canal boat tour before embarking National Geographic Explorer. (L,D)

DAY 2: Lübeck

Cruise up the river Trave to the beautiful medieval city of Lübeck. Once the Queen City of the Hanseatic League, Lübeck boasts beautiful brick architecture, much of which was rebuilt after WWII. Taste locally produced marzipan, and visit the incredible Holsten Gate and Hospital of the Holy Spirit—two of the many fascinating buildings to grace this lovely, picturesque town. (B,L,D)

DAY 3: At Sea

Overnight and into the morning, transit the Kiel Canal, a 61-mile waterway connecting the North Sea with the Baltic. During and after breakfast, take in the beautiful views of the Schleswig-Holstein region from the ship until we reach the Brunsbüttel Lock and exit out into the North Sea to sail along the coast of mainland Europe. Unwind, head to the spa, browse the library, and hear talks from our staff. (B,L,D)

DAY 4: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Cluttered with bicycles, bursting with flowers, and carved by canals, Amsterdam is a vibrant city with an arts scene that has flourished since the Middle Ages. Take in the unique character of the canal-lined streets by boat or on foot, and experience the spectacular Rijksmuseum, recently reopened after a mammoth, nine-year renovation. On a guided tour, get an insider’s view of the world’s largest collection of Dutch masters with works by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and more. (B,L,D)

DAY 5-6: Bruges and Antwerp

Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with Gothic architecture and serene waterways. Walk through the bustling and colorful Markt Square, and listen as the bells of the medieval bell tower toll the hour. After a walking excursion, board small boats and glide down swan-dotted canals to experience the gem-like old town from another perspective. The port city of Antwerp dates from the Middle Ages. Stroll the centuries-old diamond district; visit the Rubens House to view works by Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens; and admire the Renaissance architecture in Grote Markt. (B,L,D)

DAY 7-10: Beaches and Historical Battlefields of Operation Overlord and Dynamo

Turn your focus toward one of the most important historical events of the 20th century as you retrace the events of D-Day with a National Geographic historian. Sail past the Cliffs of Dover, a beacon to many WWII pilots returning home from battle on the continentand stop nearby to learn about the Allied advance preparation for the attack. Cross the English Channel in the wake of troops heading to the front. Walk in the footsteps of the Allied troops at Omaha Beach, and pay your respects at the American Cemetery. Visit the famous Pegasus Bridge across the Caen Canal, where the British 6th Airborne Division glided in to land at the very start of the Allied invasion. See the remains of Mulberry Harbor, created from partially sunken blockships to provide a safe point of entry for supplies and equipment after the initial invasion began. Overnight, navigate up the Thames River, toward London. (B,L,D)

DAY 11: London and Home

Disembark in London and transfer to Heathrow Airport for flights home. (B)

Please note: All day-by-day breakdowns are a sampling of the places we intend to visit, conditions permitting.